Patek Philippe Calatrava

Patek Philippe has long been known for its complicated watchmaking, but following the stock market crash of 1929, fewer clients had the means to purchase these high-end timepieces. After securing a controlling interest in the firm, Jean and Charles Henri Stern decided to enlist the help of an English designer named David Penney to create a simple watch that would come in at a lower price point and appeal to the firm’s clientele.  Using the principles espoused by the Bauhaus school and its minimalist, function-first philosophy, Penney conceived the Calatrava, taking its name from the Spanish military order established in the 12th century which had become the symbol of Patek Philippe. Since its debut in 1932, the Calatrava has become a byword for a simple, time-only dress watch — even from brands other than Patek itself. This particular Calatrava, a reference 5196G, is housed in a wonderfully sized, 37mm 18K white gold case with a sapphire crystal, a signed crown, a snap case back, and a polished bezel. It features a gorgeous, brushed silver dial with white gold 'obelisk' indices, a matching white gold 'dauphine' handset, and a subsidiary seconds track with black painted indices and a white gold feuille seconds hand. Powered by the hand-wound Patek Philippe Calibre 215, it comes paired to a Patek black alligator strap with a matching white gold pin buckle, making for the perfect timepiece to pair with a suit at the office or with elegant evening attire.  Although this particular model has been discontinued, it remains a highly sought-after piece thanks to its nearly perfect proportions and classic Calatrava design lingo. It also helps that more and more people are turning their sights on to smaller dress pieces as dutiful everyday-wear piece.  Looking for a dress watch with staying power?  Look no further than this Calatrava!